By Sayo Alagbe
A prominent businessman, entrepreneur and community leader, Alhaji Monzur Ayoade Ejide, has called on residents of Ogbomoso to embrace unity across religious lines, stressing that peaceful coexistence remains essential for development and divine favour.
Ejide made the appeal on Wednesday evening while hosting an interfaith iftar at his expansive residence in Ogbomoso. The event attracted a large and diverse audience, including members of various religious bodies, professional associations and media organisations within the town.
Addressing the gathering, the founder of ISBON urged Muslims, Christians and adherents of traditional religion to regard themselves as one indivisible community, irrespective of doctrinal differences. He noted that peace, love and harmony are fundamental to societal growth and divine acceptance.
“It is in peace, love and harmonious coexistence that the Almighty dwells and is pleased with His creations,” he said.
The event drew participants from groups such as the Nurudeen Society of Nigeria (Ogbomoso Chapter), Ansarudeen Muslim Society, ISBON, Christian faithful, and professional bodies including the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), the Freelance and Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria (FIBAN), as well as representatives from NTA Ogbomoso, PanNigerianNews and Scoopchase.
Reacting to rumours circulating within the community, Ejide dismissed allegations linking him to acts capable of causing discord in Ogbomosoland, describing such claims as unfounded and misleading. He maintained that he has no affiliation with any group or interest that could threaten the peace of the town.
“Ogbomoso is my home. From my youthful days, I have related freely with people across all divides without discrimination. My businesses are established here to serve both indigenes and visitors, reducing the need for them to travel far for goods and services,” he stated.
He further urged community leaders, traditional rulers and religious heads to take proactive steps in resolving disputes, warning that disunity and acrimony could hinder the town’s progress. According to him, unity remains the bedrock of sustainable development.
Ejide also commended the presence of Christian attendees at the iftar, noting that their long-standing relationship with him reflects his commitment to religious inclusiveness. He reiterated that he harbours no ill will against anyone and would never be part of any group working against the peace of Ogbomoso.
The philanthropist concluded by offering prayers for his guests, wishing them peace, good health and prosperity, and expressing hope that they would witness the successful completion of the Ramadan fast.
In their separate remarks, representatives of the Nurudeen Society and the Ansarudeen Muslim Society described Ejide as a generous and selfless individual dedicated to the welfare of the Ogbomoso community. They commended his philanthropic efforts, particularly his contributions to education through infrastructural support, business initiatives and scholarship programmes at Ladoke Akintola University of Technology and the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede.
The event featured prayers, goodwill messages, entertainment, and the serving of assorted meals and refreshments, with guests also receiving gifts as part of the evening’s activities.
You can get every of our news as soon as they drop on WhatsApp ...To get all news updates, Join our WhatsApp Group (Click Here)
